“Kids don’t realize that scientists are daily outside working in the water, working on animals, and that’s a well-paid career,” she said.

Once students are hooked on lagoons, their families take notice, Gibson said.

“There are a lot of reasons why wetlands are important,” Gibson said. “To each individual the reasons are their own. Because it offers respite, where they find peace. Because of it’s biological value supporting the Pacific Flyway. Because it filters water before it enters the ocean where we recreate. Each reason stands up on its own, but we need to be teaching the bigger picture about why it’s important.”